Guelph's COVID-19 assessment centre is getting a new name, and expanding to assess and treat those with moderate cold and flu symptoms.
Beginning Thursday, the centre at 400 Southgate Dr. will be called the Guelph COVID Cold Flu Care Clinic.
Access and care for COVID-19 and COVID-19 symptoms will continue. But as a reminder, officials with the hospital said most with symptoms are not eligible for COVID-19 testing.
In a news release, the hospital said expanding to care for cold and flu patients is an effort to create more access to care for residents, as well as ease pressures on the emergency department at Guelph General Hospital.
"This pandemic has placed a tremendous burden on our teams, partners in care, and community," Marianne Walker, president and CEO of Guelph General Hospital and Ross Kirkconnell, executive director of the Guelph Family Health Team, said in a news release.
"We are grateful and thank our teams for their shared commitment and collaboration to ensure those in need receive the best possible care."
It said the service is available by appointment only, and available seven days a week.
Weekday appointments are available between 8:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. Weekend appointments can be booked between 9:15 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.
"Guelph area residents are encouraged to contact their family doctor first before booking an appointment at the Guelph COVID Cold Flu Care Clinic," a hospital spokesperson said. "People with mild respiratory symptoms are advised to monitor their symptoms, rest, and drink plenty of fluids."
